Read More

Is Cleveland Police investigating?

Not at the moment. It is up to Cleveland Fire Brigade to decide whether the cause of the fire needs further investigation.

How did they put it out?

There was difficulty getting a water supply that could cope with the huge demand.

Access to the site was also limited. The school has been derelict for some time and was fenced off to the public.

Cleveland Fire Brigade had to go through a fence at the back of the school to get close enough.

It was a fire that had to be tackled solely from the outside, as it was too dangerous to enter the building.

The school on fire (Image: Terry Blackburn)

What was the response from the public?

Many who live nearby came out to watch the drama unfold.

Former pupils at the school looked on as their memories went up in smoke.

Cleveland Fire Brigade thanked residents for their cooperation. Many were asked to stay inside with their windows closed.

Cleveland Fire UK wrote on Twitter: “We’d like to take this opportunity to thank residents and local businesses for their co-operation and say a big thank you to Eston Hotel for providing us with a spot for our Welfare Unit.”

What is happening to the site?

Redcar and Cleveland Counclil said it was taking "positive action" to ensure the safety of the public.

A spokesman said: “The council is maintaining a temporary road closure on Burns Road while Cleveland Fire Brigade continue to dampen the site.

"The section of road will remain closed for as long as needed by Cleveland Fire Brigade. New fencing will be erected and 24-hour security measures have been put in place, including patrols of the area. Council officers continue to offer support to the fire brigade and police.

“The authority is working with the Academies Enterprise Trust who have full responsibility for the property and surrounding area. We would again thank the public for their cooperation.

The council also addressed concerns about potential asbestos.

The spokesman added: “Following the fire, the council commissioned an asbestos survey of both the immediate and surrounding areas as a precautionary measure.

"We are now able to advise the public that the results of the survey were negative, meaning that there are no health hazards relating to asbestos caused by the fire.”